The State of Nature

From Second Treatise of Government by John Locke
Locke defines the state of nature as a condition of perfect freedom and equality, governed by the law of nature (reason), not a state of license or Hobbesian war.
Ch. II, sec. 4

Famous opening definition: a state of perfect freedom and equality within the bounds of the law of nature.

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Ch. II, sec. 6

The law of nature teaches that no one ought to harm another in his life, health, liberty, or possessions.

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Ch. III, sec. 19

Distinguishes state of nature from state of war, directly contra Hobbes.

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